Senior Automation Engineer

This is a 12-month contract position.The Senior Automation Engineer provides senior-level technical leadership and hands-on execution for automation, robotics, liquid handling, and instrument integration projects supporting oligonucleotide manufacturing and process development activities at the Petaluma site. Reporting to the Head of Manufacturing, Petaluma, this role works closely with Manufacturing, Manufacturing Science and Technology (MSAT), Process Design, Facilities, Quality, Operational Technology, Enterprise Information Technology, and external vendors to design, implement, troubleshoot, and optimize automated systems that improve productivity, quality, reliability, and scalability of manufacturing operations. This role rapidly assesses current processes, identifies high-value automation opportunities, develops practical implementation plans, and executes technical solutions from concept through commissioning, operational handoff, and knowledge transfer to internal personnel. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to capably perform each of the following essential duties:Champion a proactive safety culture across automation and robotics engineering activities, including work around reagents, solvents, chemicals, flammables, corrosives, and automated equipmentDesign, develop, configure, and deploy automation solutions supporting oligonucleotide synthesis, liquid handling, laboratory automation, sample preparation, material movement, and manufacturing support workflowsEvaluate manual workflows and identify automation opportunities that improve throughput, quality, process reliability, ergonomics, labor utilization, and data integrityDevelop automation concepts, system architectures, implementation plans, functional specifications, user requirements, design specifications, test protocols, and commissioning documentationConfigure, integrate, and troubleshoot robotic systems, liquid handling platforms, automated synthesis platforms, Shasta-related instrument integrations, plate handling workflows, reagent delivery automation, and continuous DNA processing automation initiativesDesign and implement controls or integration approaches for pumps, valves, sensors, process monitoring equipment, programmable logic controller systems, manufacturing software, databases, and operational technology systemsIntegrate automation equipment with manufacturing execution systems (MES), laboratory information management systems (LIMS), databases, manufacturing software, data collection platforms, and operational technology systems in collaboration with Operational Technology Software, Data Engineering, and Enterprise Information TechnologySupport equipment installation, startup, commissioning, troubleshooting, root cause analysis, corrective actions, operational readiness, and IQ/OQ/PQ or computer software assurance (CSA)-aligned validation activities for new, modified, or integrated automation systemsPartner with Manufacturing, MSAT, Quality, Facilities, Supply Chain, and vendors to execute automation projects while maintaining alignment with production needs and compliance expectationsProvide knowledge transfer, training materials, work instructions, support documentation, technical handoff, and other deliverables needed for internal sustainmentAdhere to company policies, procedures, safety expectations, data integrity requirements, and engineering standards; perform other duties as assigned